D.C. Code § 8-1903: Consequences of a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog determination.

(a)

If the Mayor determines that a dog is a potentially dangerous or dangerous dog, the owner shall comply with the requirements of §§ 8-1904 and 8-1905 and any other special security or care requirements the Mayor may establish.

(b)

If a potentially dangerous or dangerous dog has been impounded and determined to pose a threat to public safety, the Mayor may only return the dog to its owner if the owner has:

(1)

Met the registration requirements of § 8-1904;

(2)

Agreed to comply with the requirements of § 8-1905, where necessary; and

(3)

Met or agreed to comply with any additional security or care requirements established by the Mayor.

(c)

The Mayor may humanely destroy a dog if:

(1)

The dog has been determined to be a threat to public safety if it is returned to the owner;

(2)

The owner fails to comply with the registration requirements of § 8-1904, the requirements of § 8-1905, or any special security or care requirements established by the Mayor;

(3)

The owner fails to reimburse the animal control agency for the costs and expenses of the dog’s impoundment as required by § 8-1902(d)(2); or

(4)

The owner forfeits the dog for humane destruction.